A Q&A on Climate Change, What It Is, and What We Can Do
With so much conflicting information we receive almost daily, it’s hard to know exactly what climate change really is – and more importantly, what we can do about it.
So today, Play It Green presents some tips and information on how climate change affects you and our planet, as well as some ways you can help.
Guest Educational content is written by Lacie Martin from Raise Them Well
Question: What is climate change, and how is it affecting the planet?
Answer: Climate change is an environmental disaster.
The effects can be felt everywhere, from melting glaciers to rising sea levels. It is estimated that the total cost of climate change damages to the UK will increase from 1.1% of GDP to 3.3% by 2050, and 7.4% by 2100.
It affects the planet in many ways, but one of the most significant effects is how it’s affecting agriculture. The earth’s temperature has increased significantly, which leads to changes in plant growth patterns and crop yields worldwide.
Also, the rising temperatures have led to more frequent heat waves and cold snaps. As well as this, there is an increased risk of natural disasters such as floods and hurricanes.
Question: Is Climate change man-made?
Answer: There is a huge debate on the man-made status of climate change.
Some people claim that it is not man-made. That it’s just a natural phenomenon that has been going on forever.
Some natural forces like volcanic activity and solar radiation do indeed contribute to climate change. But most science points to the fact that the dangerous temperature increases are a man-made phenomenon.
Not only that but it is happening at an alarming rate. The Earth’s temperature has increased by 1.5 degrees Celsius since the Industrial Revolution
Due to this, the planet could be 4 to 8 degrees Celsius warmer by 2100. The change in the planet’s climate is caused by human activities like burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and overpopulation.
Question: Can one person make a difference in helping stop climate change?
Answer: The answer is yes.
This can be done in small steps, like using less electricity, carpooling, and eating less meat.
Or how about reducing the use of plastic bags and other disposable items?
They can recycle, compost, and turn off lights and other electric devices when they aren’t being used.
Another very effective way for one person to reduce their carbon footprint is to teach others about the importance of reducing their own.
The more people who are aware of the problem, the less likely it will be for it to continue or for them to think that nothing can be done about climate change.
If you own a small business, then you, as an individual business owner, can have an even larger positive effect by making your business greener.
You can do this by either selling environmentally-friendly products and/or operating your business in an eco-friendly manner.
There is no shortage of people who want to buy “green” products or support businesses that operate sustainably.
Question: Is anyone doing anything significant to halt climate change?
Answer: The answer is yes.
Many people are doing something significant to halt current predicament we are in.
They’re using their creativity and emotions to create solutions and innovative ideas.
Young people are becoming increasingly aware of climate change issues as they grow up. They have been able to take a larger role as they learn more about it and become more informed.
This has led to an increase in their involvement and engagement with climate change issues.
Question: Is it too late to do anything?
Answer: The debate about whether it's too late to do anything about climate change has been going on for decades.
It’s hard to find the answer because we don’t know how much time we have left before the effects of it start becoming irreversible.
Some people believe that it is already too late and that nothing can be done now.
Others think that there are still things we can do to slow down the effects of climate change.
It’s critical you speak to your local and national leaders and let them know you support any efforts made by lawmakers that support reversing or slowing down climate change. Be vocal, hold a rally or a write-in where people gather to write and mail letters.
These go to their lawmakers demanding something be done before it’s too late.
The issue is affecting all of us quickly, and many believe it is our most pressing issue and should be at the forefront of every policy.
By decreasing your footprint, engaging in sustainable practices, and using your voice to engage others, you make a difference.
A difference in the future well-being of our planet.
Play It Green provides a simple and cost-effective way for people, businesses, organisations and sports clubs to take their next step to a more sustainable future. If you have any questions, please let us know!
